Joseph Daniel Messer

November 28, 1936 - December 29, 2023

In Loving Memory ~

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Joe Messer, "Papa Joe", who departed this world on December 29th, leaving behind a legacy of love and warmth.

He is survived by his wife Claire Sundin; sisters Vikki (Jeff) and Rose; brother-in-law Don (Kathy); his children Kevin (Ardith), Scott (Marcie), Terri (Ezio); Claire's children Trevor (Yvette), Kevin (Jacynda), Sheri (Leland); and his grandchildren Colton, Tyler, Kalli, Dylan, Logan, Ryliegh, Connor, as well as great-grandson Everett, along with numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Joe, one of nine children, began his journey as a flatlander on the family farm in Bromhead, Saskatchewan. His life took diverse paths that reflected his unwavering spirit and diverse talents. A brief stint in the army revealed his hidden gift as a boxer, leading him to clinch the title in his weight category.

Post-army, Joe sought his place in the working world, joining the Hudson Bay Company to become a skilled butcher, earning a reputation as the go-to person for quality cuts in the North Western town of Red Lake, Ontario.

Recognizing the limitations in small Northern towns, Joe turned to welding, a trade that would unlock doors to a broader world. The west coast of Canada beckoned, with a planned pitstop in Cranbrook that unexpectedly became a lifetime. He welcomed his in-laws, Glenn and Inez Moore, expanding the Cranbrook clan to seven.

Joe's career in Cranbrook spanned roles as a butcher, welder, and millwright, where he made substantial contributions. Yet, his focus always remained on family. His children and grandchildren were the center of his universe, and he tirelessly imparted life's invaluable lessons for decades.

Joe's love for the outdoors manifested in big game hunting, fishing, camping, and was known for his legendary butchering of wild game. His dedication to preserving the environment found expression through his active involvement with 'Ducks Unlimited,' where he not only worked in the field but also contributed to fundraising efforts.

Eventually finding love with Claire, the two created a loving partnership that spanned many joyful years, including idyllic times at Lake Koocanusa with family and friends. As the physical demands of hunting, and baseball became too much for his knees, Joe redirected his energy towards gardening, and crafting in his garage workshop for the next generations.

His passing has left a profound void in our family and the hearts of lifelong friends and acquaintances in Cranbrook, but the legacy of his contributions and love will endure through the many lives he touched.

We will be holding a celebration of life for Joe on January 19, 2024 at the Eagles Hall in Cranbrook, BC, from 1pm-5pm. Please come and celebrate Dad's life and share your stories with us. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be directed to BC Diabetes, which can be made at www.bcdiabetes.ca.